The summer season is always an exciting one for children and their families. Backpacks and homework assignments are set aside, and the rafts and noodles are pulled out for family trips to the community pool or beach. While this seems to be the most carefree time for kids and their families, summer is actually one of the most dangerous. Make sure to take proper safety precautions during fun summer activities.

Water Safety Tips
Swimming and playing in water can be fun for children and good exercise, but you should take certain precautions to prevent your child from drowning.
• Never let your child swim in any body of water without an adult watching.
• Be sure the adult watching your child knows how to swim, get emergency help and perform CPR.
• Keep a life-preserver in the pool area.
• Teach your child safety rules and make sure they are obeyed: never swim alone; never dive into water except when permitted by an adult; and always use a life jacket when on a boat, fishing or playing in a river or stream.
• Teach your child to swim once he or she is ready (usually around 5 years old).
Proper Sunscreen Application
For kids age 6 months and older, select an SPF of 15 or higher to prevent sunburn. Choose a sunscreen that states on the label that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays (referred to as “broad-spectrum” sunscreen). To avoid possible skin allergy, avoid sunscreens with PABA, and if your child has sensitive skin, look for a product with the active ingredient titanium dioxide (a chemical-free block).
• For sunscreen to do its job, it must be applied correctly:
• Apply sunscreen generously whenever your child will be in the sun.
• Apply sunscreen about 30 minutes before kids go outside.
• Don’t forget about lips, hands, ears, feet, shoulders and behind the neck.
• Reapply sunscreen often.
• Apply a waterproof sunscreen if kids will be around water or swimming.

Helmet Safety
Bikes and skateboards are the main methods of transportation for many kids throughout the summer. Parents should always keep in mind that wearing a helmet is critical to avoid head trauma should a fall or accident occur.
• Helmets should have a sticker that says it meets standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
• Ensure your child’s bike helmet fits properly– it shouldn’t be too small or too big.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Reinforce positive behavior, and set a good example by having parents and other adults wear their helmets as well.
• If your child does fall down, be sure to get a new helmet; they don’t work as well after a major crash.
• Make sure your child knows how to wear helmets properly: the helmet should be level and cover child’s forehead; a good rule of thumb is to position the helmet two fingers above the eyebrows; the strap should always be fastened; and make sure the straps are adjusted so they’re snug enough that you can’t pull or twist the helmet around their head.

Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach wants to ensure the most fun time of year for kids and families is also the safest. Follow the above safety tips for the most common summertime activities to keep children healthy and happy during this care-free time of year.

Danny Luna is an injury prevention coordinator for the Family Safety Coalition at Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach.

More Information
(562) 570-6816  

• Eliminate standing water in clogged rain gutters, rain barrels, discarded tires, buckets, watering troughs or anything that holds water for more than a week
• Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained
• Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths and other small containers weekly
• Request free mosquitofish from the local vector control district for placement in out-of-order swimming pools, spas, and ponds
• Report mosquito activity near vacant or foreclosed homes
• Report neglected (green) swimming pools in your neighborhood

West Nile virus is transmitted to people and animals through the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no cure for West Nile virus. One in five persons infected with West
Nile virus will exhibit symptoms. Symptoms usually occur between five and 15 days and can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea, or a skin rash. These symptoms can last for several weeks to months. One in 150 people infected with the virus will require hospitalization. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis, and possibly death.
GLACVCD recommends that individuals exhibiting these symptoms following a mosquito bite consult a physician as soon as possible. Those at highest risk for severe cases of West Nile virus are the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
The public is encouraged to report dead birds to help with West Nile virus surveillance and control efforts because birds play an important role in maintaining and spreading the virus.
To reach the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), call their toll-free hotline at 877-WNV BIRD or visit westnile.ca.gov.

More Information
glacvcd.org

Poster that is part of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s multimedia public education campaign urging parents and caretakers to get their whole family vaccinated.

This week, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health launched a multimedia public education campaign urging parents and caretakers to get their whole family vaccinated. The campaign, called “Stay Healthy. Vaccinate.,” uses print, television and radio spots, and will provide interactive content and information through Facebook and YouTube. The campaign also features its own website, vaccinateLA.com.
“Vaccines save thousands of lives each year and are the best way to protect your children and the community against serious diseases such as influenza, measles, polio, and whooping cough (pertussis). Choosing not to vaccinate your children can have serious consequences,” said Jonathan E. Fielding, MD, MPH, Director of Public Health and Health Officer. “Los Angeles County is currently experiencing the worst epidemic of whooping cough in 60 years, with more than 870 cases last year alone. We encourage everyone to talk to their doctor about the right vaccines for their children and themselves.”
A new California school immunization law will take effect on July 1, 2011, requiring all students in 7th through 12th grades in public and private schools to show proof that they have received a pertussis booster (Tdap) shot in order to attend classes in the 2011-12 school year. The pertussis booster (Tdap) shot protects against pertussis, which is sometimes called whooping cough, and two other serious diseases, diphtheria and tetanus.
“Avoid the back-to-school rush, and make sure your children are protected right away,” Fielding said. “Call your doctor or your primary healthcare provider to make an appointment as soon as possible, and avoid delays in starting school.”

More Information
vaccinateLA.com

We, as a culture, discourage drunk driving because innocent people can lose their lives. And because drunk driving can be so life-altering, friends don’t let friends drive drunk. Why do we take the keys from our drunken friend? It is because we care about them and want them around longer. Yet, there is no such prevention method to protect the life of an overweight kid, a child that is buying candy for breakfast at your neighborhood 7-Eleven at 7am. Why not?
Is the above situation my hypothetical creation? I only wish.
I was recently in line at a 7-Eleven when I happened to glance over my shoulder at a 12-year-old who helped himself to one double pack of Rice Krispies Treats, one pack of Ding Dongs, and a 16-ounce Dr. Pepper. Assuming that this kid ate all of this sugar in one sitting, can anyone reading this guess how many calories are in these three items? Answer at the bottom of article, keep reading.
This boy’s choice caused a personal flashback of a seminar I spoke at, with the subject pertaining to the state of childhood obesity in spring 2010. In closing, I told the adults in the audience: “With this knowledge, it is now your moral obligation to make a difference. It is your obligation to help lead our youth into healthy diet practices and daily exercise.” A year later, I was presented with the opportunity to practice what I preached.
After a brief explanation of what sugar had the potential to do the body, and after having informed the lad on the benefits of fruits and vegetables, I asked him to seriously consider changing his future breakfast choices. The boy nodded his head, probably left for school, and I was satisfied by my effort to reach out. Has he taken action? I don’t know, but in the very least I will be in his memory bank because I cared. I don’t mean to pat myself on the back, but we need more of this.
According to a new study in the New England Journal of Medicine, teenage boys who are even slightly overweight face an increased risk of heart disease later in life, even if they slim down as adults. Obese children are dying slowly every day, and it’s very, very sad.
So what are we, as the concerned adult leaders on children’s health, supposed to do about our dilemma? In order to take your sedentary child from their current overweight state and transform them into a fit, lively, and happier self, you must understand the raw essentials of molding human behavior.
B.F. Skinner, founder of the theory of behaviorism, said that behavior is molded or shaped by its consequences. So, how can we motivate our kids to exercise instead of sitting on the couch? The first step in changing your child’s tendencies is for your child to understand what exactly you want from them and why. Despite however well you communicate the operant (desired behavior), the whole project is absolutely aimless without a well defined and mutually agreed upon reward.
A good example would be: For every one vegetable you eat, I will extend your video game time by one minute. I doubt these youngsters can get past 10 pieces of broccoli or cauliflower. The parent has thus increased vegetable consumption and decreased sedentary time in one offering. With a strategy like this, the sedentary time becomes dependent on healthy habits. This is how we have to handle our youth.
So, that double pack of Rice Krispies Treats, one pack of Ding Dongs, and 16-ounce Dr. Pepper? Just shy of 900 calories.
Jack Mapes is co-owner of Signal Hill’s Fitness Mecca, which is currently offering anti-childhood obesity classes.

More Information
(562) 375-0425

For most women, during pregnancy, awareness of the body and the changes that are taking place within are magnified. The desire to incorporate a healthier lifestyle comes naturally at this time as mother and child begin to grow together in countless ways.
Prenatal yoga classes are an exceptional way to stay fit mentally and physically, enhance a healthy way of being and prepare yourself for the birthing process.
Some of Hatha Yoga’s main teachings are: the art of paying attention to our breathing (pranayama); learning to stay present; and listening to the body and respecting the cues it gives us in each moment. These two teachings alone are things every mother will benefit from while preparing for that final moment when contractions begin. Birthing breath, awareness and focus can be developed along with a fit body, allowing for more calm and confidence when the due date arrives.
Even if you have never done yoga, you will find a prenatal yoga practice not only allows you to feel more energized and deepen your attunement to your body’s needs and changes, but it will also allow you to enhance your relationship to the growing child within.
For those women who have previously practiced yoga, this is an excellent way to continue your exploration, being ever mindful to honor the changes your body is going through yet remembering not to attempt to intensify your yoga practice at this time. Inform your current instructor as soon as you find out you are pregnant, and they or your studio’s prenatal instructor can consult about which asanas (yoga poses) are appropriate or inappropriate at this time.
Prenatal yoga can also create a loving supportive community for you with the group of mothers-to-be who will attend classes with you each week. Strong and lasting friendships can be birthed now as you share information and similar experience during this special time.
A prenatal yoga practice may begin at any time during pregnancy, but in order to receive ultimate benefit one should invest in the practice as soon as possible. The pregnant body produces a hormone called relaxin that allows it to soften and open bones and ligaments which normally are fairly inflexible, so it is important to not overextend as you move, (no bouncing, jumping, forcing), remembering to stay on the conservative side right now.
Twists or anything that compresses the uterus is not recommended at this time.
Find a prenatal instructor at your local yoga studio or speak to your current prenatal instructor about recommended asanas for your stage of pregnancy and remember to breathe…nice deep inhales…long extended exhales. Ahhhhh, enjoy, relax, bring peace into your day. Namasté.

More Information
freespirityoga.com

What are the dietary guidelines?
Have you ever wondered where school districts get their menu plans, where the Women Infant and Children (WIC) programs receive nutrition guidance, or where the meal plans at long-term healthcare facilities come from? They’re all from the United States Department of Agriculture’s dietary guidelines.
Generally speaking, the dietary guidelines provide nutrition advice for Americans two years and older to help prevent chronic disease and promote good health. They are the basis of federal nutrition policy, education, outreach and food assistance programs. The guidelines were established in 1980 and are updated every five years. As a registered dietitian, I follow the guidelines closely, but sadly a recent survey showed that only 4% of the public is even aware of the recommendations.
What do they tell us about balancing calories in 2010?
The obesity epidemic continues on an upward trajectory, and while the current dietary guidelines cover numerous topics, I’m going to focus on one of the most critical aspects– balancing calories.
I believe that most of us have no clue how many calories we eat or what an adequate portion size should be. When counseling patients, the first thing I ask for before the session is a detailed three-day food recall and an estimate of how much they exercise daily. This allows me to see how many calories they are consuming and how many calories they are burning each day.
From there we can talk about food and beverage choices. Do I tell them “Well, you start your diet today…no more soda, cakes, chips, candy, alcohol…?” Of course not! We all know from personal experience and documented research that no one will stay on this type of restrictive regimen nor will it change any behaviors toward a long-term healthy lifestyle. Knowing that it’s not about eliminating, but rather modifying, can make a difference in how weight is managed. Other successful tips I’ve used to manage weight for my clients include:
Mindless munching: Monitor what, when and where you eat. Many eat mindlessly- in front of the computer, while driving, or just out of habit (the daily stop at Starbucks before work). Research proves accountability equals success. Keeping a small notebook in your desk or purse, or downloading a free smart phone calorie-counting app, will help you keep track of what you eat so that you don’t forget.
Quality vs. Quantity: When eating out, choose wisely. For instance, have a quality bread roll and ask for olive oil and balsamic instead of butter or choose seasonal fresh vegetable dishes. Both taste better and are better for you.
Kick-start the Day: Eat a breakfast that includes fruits or vegetables, whole grains and protein. My favorite is whole-grain bread with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella; put it in the toaster oven for one minute and enjoy!
Today’s Portions vs. Yesterday’s: Realize that today’s portions are bigger than what is recommended, needed or established as a serving size decades ago. In fact, today’s teenager thinks a 5-ounce muffin or 2-ounce bag of chips is the norm. I give clients common, visual examples of what portion sizes equal, such as 1 ounce of cheese is the size of a domino, or a serving of cooked pasta is equivalent of the size of half a baseball.
Balancing Act: Focus on balancing your calories in with calories out. Many people don’t know that consuming 3,500 extra calories beyond what you burn off will be stored as a pound of fat. Do the math, and you’ll discover that eating 500 additional calories daily leads to a pound a week over the long term, and it’s important to remember that 500 calories, whether from a candy bar, a peanut butter sandwich on whole-grain bread, or a yogurt parfait, will all have that effect. I recommend that my clients get a pedometer and shoot for 10,000 steps a day, which is about five miles. This could burn up to 500 calories a day.
Remember, there’s no need to eliminate the foods or beverages you love. Soda, cookies, chips, and candy can all be enjoyed in moderation, and many of our favorite snacks and beverages now come in smaller, manageable single servings. For example, you can find 100-calorie packs of your favorite cookies or crackers or 7.5-ounce mini cans from Coca-Cola.
The 2010 dietary guidelines once again provide basic tips based on science, which can lead you down a healthier path. Being cognizant of how many calories you eat, while balancing with calories burned, can help you achieve weight loss or maintain your healthy weight. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how in control you will feel.